Liverpool’s Route to the Final Looks Promising

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Anfield Index

·31 gennaio 2025

Liverpool’s Route to the Final Looks Promising

Champions League Draw: Liverpool’s Route and PSG Threat Analysed on Media Matters

Liverpool’s Champions League journey is taking shape following the latest draw, and the Media Matters podcast on Anfield Index, featuring Dave Davis and David Lynch, provided valuable insight into what lies ahead. From discussing Liverpool’s recent clash with PSV Eindhoven to breaking down the potential challenges in the knockout stages, the episode covered everything fans need to know—including the looming threat of PSG.

Liverpool’s Mixed Night Against PSV and Squad Depth Analysis

Despite a 3-2 defeat to PSV, David Lynch emphasised that the result was largely irrelevant given that Liverpool had already secured top spot in their group. Arne Slot took the opportunity to rotate heavily, resting key players ahead of the demanding fixture schedule.

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Lynch highlighted the importance of this decision, stating:

“You look at basically every other side who are in the Champions League this season—they’ve not had the luxury of doing what Liverpool got to do last night.”

The performance of young players like James McConnell and Federico Chiesa was a key talking point. McConnell, in particular, received high praise from Lynch:

“He’s kind of gone under the radar a little bit, but every time he takes the pitch, he kind of makes you think, ‘Wow, this kid has absolutely got it.’”

Meanwhile, Chiesa showcased his attacking intent, earning comparisons to an eager and relentless competitor:

“He’s kind of like a dog who’d been let off the leash—running around like an absolute madman.”

Despite defensive frailties on the night, Lynch dismissed concerns about Liverpool’s squad depth, taking issue with those who questioned the team’s ability to cope without star players:

“Nobody has replacements for players like Salah or Van Dijk. That’s how it works. That’s why Man City have struggled without Rodri and why Arsenal miss Saka.”

Champions League Draw Breakdown: PSG a Possible Obstacle

Liverpool’s route in the Champions League knockout stages was another major topic of discussion, with potential matchups against French sides Monaco, Brest, PSG, or Benfica in the Round of 16. If successful, they could then face the winner of Lille vs. Aston Villa.

Lynch acknowledged PSG as the toughest potential opponent but remained confident in Liverpool’s chances:

“They’ve got great quality players, but I think over two legs, Liverpool would fancy themselves to be the more balanced side and to be able to beat them.”

The wider context of the draw also worked in Liverpool’s favour, as several European heavyweights find themselves in direct competition:

“City, Real Madrid, Bayern, and Atletico have got to almost destroy each other just to get to the semi-finals. On paper, Liverpool’s path doesn’t look too bad.”

Lynch also pointed out that Man City’s draw could indirectly benefit Liverpool:

“Their quarter-final second leg lands just before Liverpool go to the Etihad. That’s really handy for a squad that’s looking a bit stretched.”

Conclusion

Liverpool’s Champions League draw has thrown up intriguing possibilities, with PSG representing the most formidable hurdle. However, as David Lynch highlighted, the Reds are in a strong position to navigate the knockout rounds.

With squad rotation proving valuable, young stars stepping up, and Arne Slot content with his options, Liverpool fans have plenty of reasons for optimism. Now, all eyes turn to the next challenge—Bournemouth away—where the Reds will look to reinforce their title credentials.